Dublin, Ireland is a favorite European destination for all types of travel. Take a birthday getaway, solo adventure, or girls’ trip to explore Ireland’s capital. The city is full of exciting restaurants, historical sites, and perfectly Irish experiences to keep you busy during your stay.
So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland and wondering what to do in Dublin during your vacation, rest assured that you have plenty of options. In fact, we’ve broken it down into the top 3 things to do, 3 best restaurants, and the top 3 bars to help you enjoy your stay.
Top Things to do in Dublin
1. Visit the Trinity College Library
Even if you’re not the type to seek out libraries on your foreign travels, the Trinity College Library is a must-see for everyone. The Long Room of the library is an incredible sight. It was even the inspiration for the Jedi Libraries in the Star Wars movies. In addition, the library is home to the 9th-century Book of Kells. Hand-drawn and intricately designed, The Book of Kells is considered one of the most impressive manuscripts still in existence.
2. Enjoy a Guinness straight from the source
You shouldn’t visit Dublin without a stop at the Guinness Storehouse. The brewery is open for tours seven days a week and there’s even a rooftop bar to enjoy a complimentary fresh pint of Guinness once you’re finished.
3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Built in the 13th century, the city’s most beloved cathedral is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin. Visitors can tour the inside of the cathedral or simply enjoy the incredible architecture and well-maintained grounds.
Top 3 Places to Eat in Dublin
1. The Winding Stair
For heartwarming Irish classics
Nearby the famous Ha’Penny Bridge, you’ll find high-quality Irish cuisine at The Winding Stair. Situated in a cozy landmark building, there’s a bookshop on the first floor and, up a spiral staircase, you’ll find the dining room. The menu is full of old-fashioned, Irish home cooking like seafood chowder and black pudding.
2. Bastible
Set menu fine dining in a neighborhood setting
Choose a night to treat yourself to one of the most outstanding meals in Dublin in the Portobello neighborhood. Using seasonal Irish produce, the team at Bastible offers a set menu (with a vegetarian option) in their unassuming neighborhood eatery.
3. Bunsen
Classic burgers and fries for a quick meal
As the Irish would say, this is the type of “cheap and cheerful” spot that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a late-night snack. Offering a simple menu of burgers and fries (sweet potato, shoestring, or standard,) Bunsen burgers are served with fresh produce on buns baked daily.
Top 3 Pubs in Dublin
When you think about what to do in Dublin, a visit to a pub is seen as an appropriate activity for any hour of the day. Pop in for lunch and a Guinness or enjoy nightly live music. These
1. The Quays Bar
For a traditional Irish Pub with live music
First-time visitors to Dublin can’t help but want to drink a Jameson while listening to a fiddle-heavy band play Galway Girl in a crowded bar. Luckily, the TempleBar area of Dublin has you covered. In particular, pay a visit to The Quays Bar where you’ll consistently find live Irish music playing. They even offer a menu of traditional dishes like Irish Stew, Cottage Pie, and Dublin Coddle.
2. P-Macs
A favorite local hangout
Similar to a laidback Williamsburg bar, P. Macs is a popular local pub on Stephen Street in downtown Dublin. With an upbeat atmosphere, throwback tunes, a wide selection of beers, and board games, P. Macs is a great place to spend an evening with friends. (Or to meet new ones.)
3. Peruke and Periwig
For craft cocktails
Peruke and Periwig makes it easy to choose something you like with their music-inspired craft cocktails. Perhaps you’re interested in the “fun, sweet, and easygoing” vibe of the “Pop” genre cocktails like their version of an Appletini. Or maybe “Rock and Roll” drinks which are “on the rocks with a little roll” are more your vibe. This section includes a Navy Grog and a Whiskey Smash. The downstairs bar has a small bites menu or you can head upstairs for modern Irish cuisine in their restaurant.
Now that you know what to do in Dublin, discover more fun places to go with friends or check out our favorite South American destinations to visit this year. If you want to stick to Europe but want something more relaxing, discover more about these 3 quiet Greek islands.
No matter where you choose to go, Troupe takes all the hassle out of planning a group trip. Allow your travel buddies to vote on their favorite destinations or share ideas for where to stay.